Spotlight on: Meadow Lakes

If you’re craving the ideal combination of rural tranquility and coastal adventure, you’ll find it in spades at Meadow Lakes.

Just a stone’s throw from some of south Cornwall’s finest beaches, yet nestled in the heart of the countryside, it offers something for all. The first souls to greet us upon arrival were three chickens, just some of the many resident farm animals from goats to guinea pigs and Shetland ponies to donkeys.

Elsewhere on site, there’s a shop, café, adventure playground, seasonal outdoor pool, tennis courts, plus a play barn packed with games and activities for kids of all ages. Anglers and those who want to get a little closer to nature are well catered for at the four lakes, well-stocked with a variety of carp and other species and teeming with wildlife.

Meadow Lakes is the perfect base for exploring the south coast, starting with some stunning walks, including the nearby Saints’ Way and the coast path. The St Austell area is famed for its beautiful subtropical gardens, with the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Eden Project both nearby.

You’re spoilt for choice for beaches too, many offering watersports hire. Charlestown’s beautifully preserved Georgian harbour is often seen on Poldark, alongside the stunning coastline it inhabits. Both the traditional fishing community of Mevagissey and riverside Fowey are a delight and only short drives away. Plus, the Roseland Peninsula offers the beauty of Porthscatho and the buzz of St Mawes among its charms.

And you can’t visit Cornwall without enjoying a cream tea, complete with locally grown Tregothnan tea! We found so much to enjoy during our stay, complemented by the ideal retreat to return to after the day’s adventure.

Meadow Lakes
Hewas Water, St Austell, Cornwall PL26 7JG
01726 882540

This site review first appeared in MMM magazine, Summer 2020 issue, submitted by Felix Rowe.